Jodrell Bank Observatory
Ian White
For most people Jodrell Bank brings one image to mind – that of its giant Lovell Telescope, which has been a familiar feature of the Cheshire landscape and an internationally renowned landmark in the world of astronomy for over 50 years. Since the summer of 1957 it has been quietly probing the depths of space. Even now, it remains one of the biggest and most powerful radio telescopes in the world, spending most of its time investigating cosmic phenomena which were undreamed of when it was conceived.
Visitors to the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre can walk half way around the base of the telescope, viewing it from many angles, as they walk along an Observational Pathway that has information boards describing how it works and what it does. In the Space Pavilion you can listen to the sounds of the Big Bang and explore the invisible Universe using a range of hands-on activities.
You may be surprised to know that Jodrell Bank has 35 acres of gardens which provide a picnic and playground area with great views of the Lovell Telescope.
